Zill Hajj
“Zill hajj” (also spelled “Dhu al-Hijjah”) is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It holds great significance for Muslims around the world due to the observance of the annual pilgrimage known as “Hajj” and the celebration of “Eid al-Adha,” also known as the Festival of Sacrifice. Here are some key points about Zill hajj:
Hajj Pilgrimage: Zilhajj is the month in which the Hajj pilgrimage takes place. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Hajj is a profound spiritual journey that symbolizes unity, humility, and submission to Allah.
Eid al-Adha: Zilhajj also marks the celebration of Eid al-Adha, which falls on the 10th day of the month. Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Isma’il (Ishmael), as an act of obedience to Allah. However, Allah replaced the son with a ram, symbolizing divine mercy and provision. Muslims around the world perform the ritual of Qurbani (sacrifice) during this festival, offering an animal (usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel) as a symbol of their devotion and willingness to make sacrifices in the path of Allah.
Days of Tashriq: The days following Eid al-Adha are known as the “Days of Tashriq” (11th, 12th, and 13th of Zilhajj). These days are marked by additional acts of worship, including the recitation of takbeer (the declaration of the greatness of Allah) after each obligatory prayer.
Fasting and Acts of Worship: While fasting during the first nine days of Zilhajj is not obligatory, it is highly recommended. The Prophet Muhammad encouraged Muslims to engage in fasting, charity, and acts of worship during these days.
Auspicious Time: The first ten days of Zilhajj are considered among the most blessed days of the Islamic calendar. Muslims are encouraged to increase their acts of worship, charity, and supplication during this period.
The Hajj Journey: Muslims who embark on the Hajj pilgrimage travel to Mecca to perform a series of rituals that connect them to the history of the Prophet Ibrahim and his family. The Hajj pilgrimage involves various stages, including wearing the ihram (special attire), circumambulating the Kaaba, standing at the plain of Arafat, and performing other rites.
Spiritual Reflection: Zilhajj is a time for Muslims to engage in self-reflection, draw closer to Allah, and seek forgiveness for their sins. The rituals and acts of worship associated with Hajj and Eid al-Adha provide opportunities for personal growth and renewal.
Zilhajj holds immense significance in the lives of Muslims as a time of spiritual growth, devotion, and the fulfillment of important religious obligations. It serves as a reminder of the unity of the Muslim ummah (community) and the importance of sacrifice, both in the literal and metaphorical sense, as Muslims seek to please Allah and uphold their faith.
